Allow me to explain how I got started designing and printing my clothing line and what was my inspiration. When I graduated college I got a job working for the senior partner for a large law firm in Columbia, SC. I had studied business but I had been doing art before I could write my name. I worked there for about a year and a half before my life took a dramatic turn.
On the night of April 20th 1999 my house caught fire while my roommate and I were sleeping. Luckily, Tanner, my dog woke me up by licking my face. When I arose I saw that the house was completely engulfed in flames and I had only a few seconds to break my roommates door down and pull him out to safety before the house collapsed. I thought my dog had followed me out but in all the confusion he was still inside. I tried to save him but the windows were painted shut. He died that morning, giving his life to save my roommates life and mine - thus "Sometimes a Dog is as good as any Man."
Thankfully, family and friends were a big support during this time in my life. A friend suggested using my art talent by drawing John Bell from my favorite band since 1990, Widespread Panic. I made the illustration into a shirt and hit the road. Soon I was selling at shows across the country, and the rest is history.
The logo I chose was a drawing of Tanner, my hero. I decided to call my business Brave Friend Apparel and Design in his honor.
Thanks,
Patrick Donovan
Founder and Designer
Brave Friend Apparel & Design